The era of Sony’s beloved robotic canine companion, aibo, is drawing to a close in Japan, with sales of the latest ERS-1000 model set to be discontinued once current stock is depleted. This announcement marks a significant moment for the high-tech toy, known for its ability to develop a unique personality and perform tricks.
Aibo’s Journey: From 1999 to Today
The ERS-1000 aibo, a 30-centimeter (one-foot) long robot dog featuring expressive eyes, a camera nose, and flapping ears, first charmed consumers upon its 2018 launch, achieving 20,000 sales in its initial six months. This release represented a significant comeback for Sony’s robotic pet venture.
The original aibo debuted in 1999, with Sony releasing various iterations over the years, ranging from angular, metallic designs to softer, more rounded versions. Between 1999 and 2006, more than 150,000 units were sold. However, Sony discontinued the line in 2006, citing challenging business conditions and viewing the robot dog as a luxury item.
Continued Support and Global Outlook
Despite the discontinuation of sales in Japan, Sony has assured customers that essential services will continue. This includes access to technical support, replacement parts, and subscriptions to online cloud plans required for storing the robot dog’s memories.
When questioned about the possibility of a new generation of aibo, a Sony representative told Agence France-Presse (AFP) that “the aibo business will continue.” The company stated, “While we are unable to provide any specific details regarding future product plans at this stage, we will continue to expand our range of new products and services so that aibo remains a partner cherished by its owners and continues to grow alongside them.”
Sony has not disclosed the total sales figures for the 2018 ERS-1000 model. However, sales are expected to persist in the United States, where the aibo is priced at over $3,000. The robot dog is not currently sold in any other international markets.
Fan Reactions to the News
The news of the sales halt in Japan has elicited strong emotional responses from fans. One user on X, formerly Twitter, identified as Yachi, expressed distress, stating, “I’ve been in a daze ever since I saw the announcement. Until more information comes out, I need to be careful not to mess up my daily life from overthinking.”
Another user, Yusuke Ando, reflected on the timeline, asking, “So it’s over already? It didn’t last until the golden age of physical AI.” A suggestion for future development came from X user Daiyamondo, who proposed, “Next time you develop one, could you make it half the size, and cat-shaped?”
